socat contains a syslog() based format string vulnerablility in the '_msg()' function of 'error.c'. Exploitation of this bug is only possible when socat is run with the '-ly' option, causing it to log messages to syslog.

Impact======

Remote exploitation is possible when socat is used as a HTTP proxy client and connects to a malicious server. Local privilege escalation can be achieved when socat listens on a UNIX domain socket. Potential execution of arbitrary code with the privileges of the socat process is possible with both local and remote exploitations.

Workaround==========

Disable logging to syslog by not using the '-ly' option when starting socat.

This GLSA and any updates to it are available for viewing at the Gentoo Security Website:

http://security.gentoo.org/glsa/glsa-200410-26.xml

Concerns?=========

Security is a primary focus of Gentoo Linux and ensuring the confidentiality and security of our users machines is of utmost importance to us. Any security concerns should be addressed to security@gentoo.org or alternatively, you may file a bug at http://bugs.gentoo.org.